New Jaguar XJ Sentinel Armored Version to Debut at Moscow Show

Jaguar is rounding out the all-new XJ series with an armored special protection version called the Sentinel, which will be revealed for the first time in public at the upcoming 2010 Moscow International Motor Show (Aug. 25-29). The new XJ Sentinel is aimed at those who for whatever reason fear for their life, promising to stop attacks ranging from .9mm hand guns to explosives.

The XJ Sentinel is beefed up with extra high-strength steel with Kevlar backing that was engineered in partnership with armoring specialist, Centigon, offering ballistic protection up to B7 level (BS EN 1522 level FB7 and BS EN 1063 BR7-), blast protection against 15kg (33 pounds) of TNT equivalent detonated within close proximity of the vehicle, and substantial under floor grenade protection.

Despite the added protection, Jaguar says the Sentinel is “virtually indistinguishable” from the standard XJ model.

The car is based on the long wheelbase version of the XJ saloon with power coming from a 385HP 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. According to the company, it completes the 0 to 100km/h (62mph) sprint in 9.7 seconds and achieves a top speed of 195km/h (121mph).

To cope with the increased body weight (the Sentinel tips the scales at 3,800kg or 8,377 lbs), the firm’s engineers up-rated and re-tuned the suspension and steering wheel systems, and added a more powerful braking system sourced from the 510HP Supercharged (non-armored) XJ model.

“The XJ Sentinel is the ultimate armoured luxury limousine,” said Mike O’Driscoll, Managing Director at Jaguar Cars. “It offers governments, security organisations and private individuals, the highest level of security, with advanced design, refined performance and a beautifully-crafted cabin. The XJ Sentinel will be the vehicle of choice for the most discerning,” he added.